Graig Fawr, Dyserth

Has been described as a Questionable Timber Castle (Other/Unknown), and also as a Questionable Masonry Castle

There are uncertain remains

NameGraig Fawr, Dyserth
Alternative Names
Historic CountryFlintshire
Modern AuthorityDenbighshire
1974 AuthorityClwyd
CommunityDyserth

Possible site of castle mentioned in 1241 as foundation of Henry III "near Rothelan". Visit 20.3.92 did not reveal the site (Latham, J 1992, 6). (Clwyd Powys Archaeological Trust HER 17813)

Series of banks on SE neck of Graig Fawr, probably combination of stock enclosures natural ridges and quarries. Seen by Beer as promontory fort, and Parry as the documented 1st Dyserth castle. Both unlikely.

Extensive area of irregular shaped banks of varying height, but no more than 2m. Some of the banks have been destroyed by late activity such as quarrying. (CCC, 1982)

Probable field system covering about 4 hectares. Banks with stone core and turf covering. Predate mining (Latham, J 1992,7). (Clwyd Powys Archaeological Trust HER 102191)

Gatehouse Comments

Said to be site of false start for castle, that mentioned in 1241 as founded by Henry III 'near Rothelan'. Graig Fawr is a complex archaeological site with much use in many periods including multiperiod metal ore mining presumably with associated spoil tips. This site is doubtful. Confusion is added by there being two listing in the HER for a castle site here one at SJ05958039 and another at SJ06188020.

- Philip Davis

Not scheduled

Not Listed

County Historic Environment Record
OS Map Grid ReferenceSJ059803
Latitude53.3120498657227
Longitude-3.41319990158081
Eastings305950
Northings380390
HyperLink HyperLink HyperLink

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Books

  • Reid, Alan, 1998, Castles of Wales (John Jones Publishing)
  • Latham, J., 1992, The National Trust Archaeological Survey. Graig Fawr. Dyserth. Clwyd (National Trust) (as field system)
  • Davies, E., 1949, Prehistoric and Roman Remains of Flint (Cardiff)

Journals

  • Hogg, A.H.A. and King, D.J.C., 1967, 'Masonry castles in Wales and the Marches: a list' Archaeologia Cambrensis Vol. 116 p. 71-132
  • Parry, E.H., 1953, 'Day excursion to Caergwrle' Proceedings of the Dyserth District Field Club p. 24 (as castle)
  • Anon, 1952, 'May 24th 1952 Walk: Allt y Graig' Proceedings of the Dyserth and District Field Club p. 23-6
  • Beer, A.W., 1915, 'Meliden Church. The earthworks on Craig Fawr' Proceedings of the Dyserth District Field Club p. 54 (as Promontory fort)
  • Edwards, T., 1912, 'Abergele meeting report' Archaeologia Cambrensis Vol. 67 p. 117-21, 263

Other

  • John Latham, 1992, National Trust Archaeological Survey of Graig Fawr, Dyserth, Clwyd (unpublished)